Mommy I Run Fast

Sun, humidity, trees.
Amber air, heavy wind.
She smacks the gnat on her arm.
Wipes its body onto her jeans.
Peat moss under foot,
Willows hanging low.
She runs as fast
--as her short limbs will carry
Screaming "Mommy I run fast!"
Mommy barely looks up but smiles,
--"Baby run, so fast."
Sun sets over the treetops
Navy air, cooling winds.
"Baby ran, so fast."
Mommy peers into the pond
Beneath the willows low
Sludging and green
Thick and deathly
Yes, Baby ran
So fast.